Aylsham Windmill

A luxury holiday home for six in a former working flourmill built in 1826.  

A former working flourmill built in 1826, Aylsham Windmill is now a luxury holiday home for six, close to the Norfolk Broads, Norwich and the wild North Sea coast. It makes for an interesting place to stay: a step back in time with a hefty dose of 21^st century luxury.

Aylsham Windmill is a hard-working building. It milled flour for 80 years, before being retired in the early 20^th century. It then became derelict, rescued in 1999 by its current owners. They set about a labour of love, replacing floors, stairs and beams to create the cosy holiday pad it is today.

You'll find the windmill down a neat tree-lined drive on the outskirts of the market town of Aylsham. Step inside, and you'll find a utility room with plenty of space for coats and muddy boots. Climb up to the first floor, and you reach the open plan living and kitchen area, equipped with everything you'll need for lazy days and cosy evenings. There is a kitchen fitted into the curved wall of the windmill, making for an unusual spot to whip up a meal. There is a dining table and chairs for six, three  sofas, a TV and DVD player. You won't need to worry about getting cold on winter nights: the gas fire keeps everything toasty.

Head up the stairs, and you'll find two bedrooms (a double and a twin), and a shared en-suite bathroom. Up another flight, and you'll find a king-size bedroom with its own en-suite. If you have a bigger group, you can book space for an extra two people in our neighbours' lovely cottage next door.

The windmill has its own private patio, with a table and chairs surrounded by flowers. It's ideal for long lunches in the sun and drinks at dusk after a day out exploring. And there is plenty to explore around the mill.

Aylsham itself is an attractive historic town with pubs, tea rooms and shops. It is a great place to while away an afternoon pottering. Nearby is Blickling Hall, an eighteenth century house and garden that was once home to Anne Boleyn. It is surrounded by 500 acres of woodland, crossed with walking and cycling trails, making it a fabulous day out for those with energy to burn.   

Further afield, the Norfolk trails make for easy walking and cycling adventures. If you bring your own bike, you can store it safely in the windmill's utility area. Aylsham Cycle Centre will take care of your bike repairs, and there are plenty of places who will deliver bikes for hire. The Norfolk Coast Cycleway will take you on attractive coastal paths and inland lanes, with great views from the saddle. Walkers will also love the coastal trail, and the inland river valley walks. If you'd rather travel by boat, the windmill makes a perfect base from which to explore the Norfolk Broads and coast.

Aylsham Windmill is a lovely holiday haven, great for those looking for an active getaway with a dose of history thrown in.

Things to note

VisitEngland graded 5 star Gold. Short breaks available (2 nights minimum in low season). No smoking, no pets. Flexible changeover days. Small party discount for 2 guests.

2 more can be accommodated in neighbours' pretty self contained apartment with private courtyard - enquire with owner.

Prices vary according to length of booking/season, starting at £78 per night for a weeks stay in low season, up to £200 per night for a short break in July.